Charity cycle helps beat the blues

CYCLISTS from across the Northside were among over 300 riders who took part in a gruelling cross country mission on Saturday, June 6, to highlight the fight against suicide.

The 200km Console East-West cycle from Kildare to Galway promoted awareness of the services provided by the national suicide prevention and bereavement charity, particularly Console’s 24/7 helpline 1800-247247.

Among those taking part was Fair City star, George McMahon, better known as Mondo.

Cheeky chappie Mondo took the easy way out on this cycle marathon as the soap star, who has just started a new cycling business eBike, used an electric bike.

“I know right well that it’s kind of cheating and I was well prepared for the slagging I got from the proper cyclists but it was all for a good cause,

? laughed George.

Console CEO Paul Kelly was happy to have George in the saddle and the other 300 volunteers aboard.

“Everything raised from the East-West cycle goes to ensuring that Console’s services are free and readily accessible, so people in need can get help when they need it most,

? said Paul.

Travelling on the old Dublin to Galway road the Console cyclists took in four stops en route to spread the word and raise much needed funds for the charity.

Having left Kildare at 6.30am the 300 strong group stopped off at Kinnegad and Moate in the morning, followed by Ballinasloe at and Loughrea that afternoon.

“We invited the public to come out and join us at these stops and I’m happy to say loads of people turned out in each location to support us and cheer on our cyclists,

? said Paul Kelly.

“On our travels we gave out Console wristbands and other information so people are aware that hope and help are always available from Console.

?

Console’s intrepid cyclists finished their one day cross country trek with an overnight stay in Galway’s Clayton Hotel and next day sponsors Bus Eireann returned them to Dublin by bus.

Nationwide professional suicide prevention and bereavement charity Console offers counselling services and 24-hour helpline support to people in crisis and those bereaved by suicide.

Console can be reached at any time on freephone 1800-247247 and many resources and useful information can be found at www.console.ie.